The Who is over for Zak Starkey

  Zak Starkey Leaves The Who: End of an Era for the Band

After nearly three decades behind the drum kit for The Who, Zak Starkey has officially parted ways with the legendary rock band

Starkey, son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, joined The Who in the mid-1990s and quickly became more than just a touring member. His hard-hitting yet precise playing style helped recapture the energy of the band’s early years, channeling the spirit of original drummer Keith Moon without trying to mimic him. For many fans, Starkey wasn’t just a replacement—he was part of the family.

While The Who has always been Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey’s show, Starkey’s presence onstage added consistency and credibility, especially in the band's post–John Entwistle era. He played on major tours, contributed to their 2006 album Endless Wire and 2019 album WHO, and became an essential part of their live reputation.

The reason for his departure hasn’t been made public. It has been speculated that during a recent performance of the group at Royal Albert Hall, Roger had stopped the show, saying he couldn't hear himself over the drum playing during the song "The Song is Over".  

Starkey continues to be active in the music scene, particularly with his label Trojan Jamaica and collaborations in the reggae and rock world. Fans will likely see more from him, just not under The Who banner.

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When I'm 84

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Hope I Die Before I Get Old

 

 "Hope I die before I get old" - The Who (Pete Townshend)

Tom Nichols of The Atlantic laments this week saying that the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame shouldn't even exist. I don't totally agree but he does make some good points. It's a debate that's been going on since before it existed. I get it, rock and roll was suppose to be part of the anti-establishment and the existence of a Hall of Fame makes it, the establishment. 

I agree with Nichols that Rock and Roll is generational and is defined or expressed by each new generation. Rock and roll music exploded with the Boomer generation in the 60's and 70's. It helped defined their generation. Although the following generations did their best to follow but admittedly there seemed to be diminishing influence on popular music. 

Like our leaders in government these days rock and roll seems to have their own form of gerontocracy going. When The Beatles were inducted in 1988 George, Paul and Ringo were all in their 40's, even then I remember the aging 60's rockers were considered "old" for rock and roll which had an image of youth and energy. How quaint were those days. Now it seems a Rock and Roll induction seems to be a race to get members in before they leave this world. Now we still have, Paul McCartney, Ringo, Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan still touring in their 80's.

I wouldn't go as far Tom Nichols saying it shouldn't exist. Those musician who excel and have worked hard should receive recognition. I do hope, and I'm paraphrasing The Who, I hope they do before they get too old.